What an amazingly wonderful and faithful example is our Jesus! He was so willing to do whatever it takes to be about His Father’s business, and even though He knew He was the Son of God, He also knew He was the son of man and subject to the trinity’s plan for new believers and disciples. Was it necessary for Him to be baptized? No. He allowed it because He wanted to set the example for us all not only in the Christian process but in the relationship between masters (leaders) and followers. Baptism symbolizes a new life in Christ and in relationship with Him. Scripture doesn’t say specifically, but could He have allowed Himself to be baptized to show He wants to be in relationship with us, too?

It’s impossible to preach about Jesus without preaching about the special relationship we have with Him. We need to give those God sends across our path a reason to remain on the Christian walk. Knowing that Jesus died for us is important, but so is the fact that jesus came to show us how to live and relate to Him, the Father, the Holy Spirit and each other.

Scripture: Matthew 3:13-16

Then jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I have need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?” But jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for this is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness”. Thus he allowed Him. Then jesus, when he had been baptized, came up immediately from the water; and, behold the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him.

Let’s Pray

Father God, please help me to understand my part in the great commission and help me to live it and embrace it daily. Help me to understand the gifts, talents and abilities You have given me and the part of Your work that You have equipped me to participate in. Fill me with You love and the power of the Holy Spirit so that I may not only be spirit-filled but spirit-led. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Things to Think, Pray and Journal About

1. What kind of relationship do you have with Jesus? What kind of relationship do you want?

2. Are you prepared to set right, loving, relational examples to those God sends across your path? Have you asked God to guide you?

copyright 2014, Pastors George and Sharon Billington, All Rights Reserved